Paul’s Swan Song

What would you say, or want to say to a loved one or your friend if you knew that your death was imminent? Too often people die without any warning and conflicts go unresolved and regrets linger. Maybe this is your experience.

Death and dying are not pleasant topics to discuss. Most of us act like we’re going to live forever here on earth. But the reality and general rule is that, “…it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27).

The question is, Where will you spend eternity – with God in heaven or with the devil and his angels/demons in the lake of fire (John 14:1-3; Matthew 25:30, 41, 46)? Yes, we can be sure (Romans 8:16; 1 John 5:13).

Christians shouldn’t fear death. Why? The sting of death has been removed (1 Corinthians 15:55-57). Jesus holds the keys of death today, not the devil anymore (Hebrews 2:14; Revelation 1:18). Paul wrote, “We are confident, yes, well pleased rather to be absent from the body and to be present with the Lord” (2 Corinthians 5:8).

He had been to Paradise and came back, but he wasn’t allowed to tell us about it (2 Corinthians 12:1-6; See Acts 14:19, 20). Jesus is preparing a place for His Bride, the true Church (John 14:1-3; Revelation 21:9 ff). Will you be there with Him and other believers? [1]

Admonitions to Timothy

As the Apostle Paul was in a Roman prison facing imminent death, he wrote his “Swan Song” to Timothy, his son-in-the-faith (1 Timothy 1:2).

(A “swan song” has been called the final performance of an actor, singer, composer, poet, or the like. According to folklore, swans sing most beautifully just before they die, and hence this phrase came to be used to describe someone who was leaving in style.)

Paul wanted to share some final thoughts with Timothy to encourage him to keep on serving the Lord even after he was gone from earth to heaven, which he said is far better (Philippians 1:23).

While this entire letter of Second Timothy has great value to it, and should be read often, we’ve selected just a few verses which we believe can help younger Evangelists, Pastor-teachers, whose job it is to glorify God (1 Corinthians 10:31) by equipping other believers to do their work of ministry with the spiritual gift that God has given to each believer at the time of his/her salvation (Ephesians 2:10; 4:11-16; 1 Peter 4:10).

The devil wants to disappoint, discourage, and cause God’s servants to doubt God and His Word (Genesis 3:1-5). He goes about as a roaring lion seeking those whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8). When he tempts believers, we must put on the whole armor of God and then resist him (Ephesians 6:10-17; James 4:7).

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart” (Galatians 6:9).

“And the things that you [Timothy] have heard from me [Paul] among many witnesses, commit these to faithful men who will be able to teach others also” (2 Timothy 2:2).

Not every Christian is faithful and spiritual; many are carnal (1 Corinthians 2:14, 15; 3:1-4; Romans 8:6-8). They need to confess their known sins to God the Father and then claim His forgiveness (1 John 1:9; James 5:16) so God the Holy Spirit can illuminate their minds to the truth that is found in the Bible (Ephesians 1:17, 18). Then they can grow spiritually (2 Peter 3:18).

“For as many as are [habitually being] led by the Spirit of God, these are [the maturing] sons of God” (Romans 8:14). If you’re saved, are you stunted or growing? Is God pleased?

In a message entitled “The Ultimate Final,” Dr. Howard Hendricks asks these questions: (1) Is the Lord well pleased? (2) Is the work well done? (3) Is the Word well used? [2] Please listen to it.

“Be diligent to present yourself approved to God, a worker who does not need to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth” (2 Timothy 2:15).

Being well pleasing to God and meeting His approval should be a top priority in our lives (See 2 Corinthians 5:9). As Christians we need to “… sanctify the Lord God in [our] hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to everyone who asks [us] a reason for the hope that is in [us], with meekness and fear; having a good conscience, that when they defame [us] as evildoers, those who revile [our] good conduct in Christ may be ashamed” (1 Peter 3:15, 16).

“All Scripture is given by inspiration of God [i.e., God breathed], and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work” (2 Timothy 3:16, 17).

“Doctrine = What is right; Reproof = What is not right; Correction = How to get right; Instruction in righteousness = How to stay right.” – Dr. Manfred Kober

The Scriptures tell us in words what God wants for us to know at this time. Within the pages of the 66 books of the Bible we have all that we need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3, 4). “Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ” (Colossians 2:8).

Heaven will never get boring. Why? In the ages of eternity, yet to come, God will reveal more and more to us believers (Ephesians 2:7). Ages and dispensations are not the same.

“Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day, and not to me only but also to all who have loved His appearing” (2 Timothy 4:8).

Carnal Christians don’t love or look forward to Christ’s imminent return for us (John 14:1-3; 1 Corinthians 16:22; 1 John 2:28). If they did, they would act right. They are on dangerous ground and could die prematurely (1 Corinthians 11:30; James 5:19, 20; 1 John 5:16, 17). What about you?

At the “Bema Seat Judgment” the believer’s works will be evaluated to determine which ones are rewardable and praiseworthy, and which ones aren’t. The worthless works will be burned up (1 Corinthians 3:11-15; 4:5; 2 Corinthians 5:10) without the believer’s losing his/her salvation (John 10:28, 29; Ephesians 4:30).

There are five crowns that Christians can earn for the glory of God. [3] Which ones will you earn? If you earn them, what will you do with them? (See Revelation 4:10,11)

Paul’s Words To Titus

“For a bishop [an overseer of a local church] must be blameless, as a steward of God, not self-willed, not quick-tempered, not given to wine, not violent, not greedy for money, but hospitable, a lover of what is good, sober-minded, just, holy, self-controlled, holding fast the faithful word [Greek “didachen” = doctrines that are to be believed and practiced] as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine [Greek “didaskalia” = that which is to be believed, but not practiced], both to exhort and convict those who contradict” (Titus 1:7-9).

An overseer (Pastor-teacher) needs to understand and teach “Dispensational” distinctions to the believers in his care. Otherwise confusion reigns. Deacons also need to understand “the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience” (1 Timothy 1:4; 3:9).

While all of the Bible is FOR us, but not all of it is addressed TO us as Christians. “Galatianite Christians” try to come to spiritual maturity by keeping the “Mosaic Law.” [4] It’s impossible (Romans 6:14; Galatians 3:1 ff; 5:1 ff).

New Testament believers are to live by “Grace” principles. (See our Dispensations Chart to discover where our “House Rules” are found in the Scriptures.) [5] What value does the Old Testament have for Christians today? (See 1 Corinthians 10; Romans 15:4; Exodus 3:14).

Once again, if you knew that your time on earth was about to end, what would you do differently? “Repay no one evil for evil. Have regard for good things in the sight of all men. If it is possible, as much as depends on you, live peaceably with all men. Beloved, do not avenge yourselves, but rather give place to wrath; for it is written, “Vengeance is Mine, I will repay,” says the Lord” (Romans 12:17-19).

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God” (2 Corinthians 1:3, 4).

We should treat every day as though it might be our last day on earth, or the last day of someone we love and/or know. Are you doing this?

How will you be remembered by others? What impact are you having on your family, friends, fellow workers, and others? Is it for good or for evil? What negative practices do you need to stop with God’s help? Which positive practices do you need to keep on doing?

We’re here to help unbelievers come to a saving knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ, Who died for our sins…and rose again bodily on the third day. [1] Once a person is saved from condemnation (Romans 8:1), we want to help him/her grow spiritually (2 Peter 3:18).

If you would like additional spiritual help, we can be reached here or through our website: www.kelseypeach.com.

If this article has helped you, please SHARE it with others. To receive future articles as they come out, click on “Follow.”

[1] The Gospel – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2019/04/24/the-bad-news-the-good-news/

[2] The Ultimate Final – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LKaavuDlvZ4

[3] Five Crowns – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2018/07/12/whats-free-whats-earned/

[4] Dispensations – https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2021/11/18/law-grace-or-kingdom-living/

[5] The House Rules https://kelseypeach.wordpress.com/2017/07/10/the-house-rules/

Scripture taken from the New King James Version

Copyright c. 1982 by Thomas Nelson, Inc. Used by Permission. All rights reserved.

“Sticks And Stones….”

  “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but names and faces can’t hurt me.”  Do you believe that?  I don’t.  Names and faces can and do hurt us emotionally.

  Good Pain.  Believe it or not, “There is good in pain, privation, suffering, and bereavement.  They correct evil, prevent evil, develop character, produce enterprise, sympathy, and prepare for eternity.”  God uses some of these things to chasten His true children for their good and His glory (Hebrews 12:5-8; John 8:44).  The wicked who seem to get away with murder will have their day in the court of Judge Jesus (Revelation 20:11-15).

  Bullies.  You can find them in schools and in the work place.  I encountered one when I was in the eighth grade.  The bully was a sophomore (a wise fool).  He used to pick on me all the time until I got exasperated and challenged him to a fight.  Scared?  You bet I was.

  Missionary Kids.  Imagine this.  Two missionary kids living in Japan going at it as a crowd of other students watched.  I was sure my face would be disfigured and rearranged when it was all over.  But I had never had an occasion to put into practice what I had been learning in my Judo classes.  To my surprise and his embarrassment I pinned him in a matter of seconds.  That was the extent of my “fighting career.”  That night I snuck into the house to make sure my dad didn’t find out about it.  I knew I’d be in big trouble if he did.

   A Good Father.  “He who spares his rod hates his son, But he who loves him disciplines him promptly” (Proverbs 28:13).  Read that again.  “Foolishness is bound up in the heart of a child; The rod of correction will drive it far from him” (King Solomon, Proverbs 22:15).

  Persecution.  Religious persecution has gone on for eons.  Rather than trying to convert others with the use of words, many religious groups have resorted to the sword to bring about the conversion of others.  We deplore such methods.  Salvation is by grace through faith in Christ.  It is not of works lest anyone should boast (Ephesians 2:8, 9).

  Hatred.  Have you ever wondered why the religious Jews hated the Apostle Paul? After all, he was a Jew himself, and had been a Pharisee.  It seems like everywhere he went there was a riot and/or revival.  Some Jewish leaders hated him because he taught that Jesus was God manifested in human flesh (Philippians 2:5-11), and that salvation was by grace through faith in Him alone, and not by their works of righteousness (Titus 3:5).  They thought Jesus couldn’t be God because He didn’t measure up to their particular expectations (John 8:41-59; 1 Corinthians 1:23).  They wanted a conquering King to deliver them from Rome’s oppression, not a suffering Savior who would end up crucified on a cross.  They also hated Paul because he offered salvation to the Gentiles (non-Jews) without their becoming proselyte Jews first (Acts 15:5; 22:18, 19).  This really irritated them.

  Resurrection.  Paul’s insistence that the bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ be included in the Gospel message also got him into trouble (2 Timothy 2:8, 9).  You might ask, “Why?”  The bodily resurrection of Jesus Christ ensures other resurrections.  His is the first sample of other bodily resurrections to follow.  Death doesn’t end everything.  Unbelievers are not annihilated at death as some cults teach, nor are people reincarnated into another life (Hebrews 9:27).  Some day every human being, who has ever been conceived, will be raised from the dead (1 Corinthians 15:22-24). Do you know in which one of the five resurrections you will participate?  You better make sure it’s not the last one or you’ll be in big trouble (Revelation 20:11-15).

  Abortion.  Think about all the babies that have been aborted in their mother’s womb.  Do you think God isn’t aware of such things?  He is omniscient and omnipotent.  In the Old Testament times the Gentiles and rebellious Jews took their live babies and threw them into the fire to offer their children to their idols (2 Chronicles 28:3).  All of them will be raised from the dead someday.  What will they have to say to those who hurt and aborted them?  Yes, judgment day is coming (Hebrews 9:27).  God will take vengeance on all unrepentant sinners who refused the pardon He offers to sinners like you and me (Romans 12:19).

  Truth Hurts.  When your doctor tells you that you have cancer, it brings pain into your soul (emotions).  But when he tells you there is a cure, you get hope.  When someone tells you that you are in danger of going to hell, you might be offended.  But when he shows you from the Bible how to avoid that awful place, it ought to make you happy.  Instead, some people get mad when they are told that this deliverance from hell can only be gained by faith, not by their good works.  Man wants to earn his own way to heaven but it can’t be done.  Nor does he want to admit that he deserves to go to hell.  He is proud, self righteous, and thinks he is pretty good.

  How Bad?  Have you ever wondered what God thinks about mankind?  It isn’t pretty (Romans 3:10-23).  True, we’re not all as bad as we could be.  But we’re all as “bad off” as we can be until we have Christ’s perfect righteousness put to our account (Romans 4:24).  At his point I realize that some of you may be thinking, “He is crazy.”  That’s what others, including Christ’s half brothers said about Him too (Mark 3:21).  God’s simple plan of salvation seems foolish to the natural, self sufficient man (1 Corinthians 2:14).  What about you?  Are you sinless?  I’m not.  That’s why I need a sinless Savior to be my substitute.

  Sticks And Stones.  On several occasions the Apostle Paul was beaten with rods and once he was stoned to death.  But God resuscitated him after giving him a glimpse of Paradise (2 Corinthians 11:24, 25; 12:1-5).

  Suffering.  Have you ever suffered for being a Christian?  Many people have been tortured for Christ and many more will be mistreated in the future.  Jesus suffered the most as He bore our sins on the cross.  After being dead for three days, He rose again bodily from the grave never to die again (1 Corinthians 15:1-8).  Presently He is seated at God the Father’s right hand in heaven (Acts 2:33).  Jesus is waiting for those whom the Father has given to Him to believe on Him and be saved.  Then He will come back for the true believers and raise the dead in Christ from the grave to be with Him forever (John 6:37; 14:1-3).  Are you in or out of that group?  How secure are you?

  Need Help?  I’m grateful to God that someone helped me see the light.  If you aren’t sure you will go to heaven the moment you die, we’d be happy to help you.  Call us at 805-238-3549 or visit our web site at http://www.kelseypeach.com. 

  This article corresponds to one of our talks on Sundays at the Grace Baptist Church, 535 Creston Road in Paso Robles.  We also have “Discussion Questions” we use to amplify these thoughts during our Bible studies in the middle of the week.  Ask about them.

“Deserted, But Never Alone”

   “Being alone doesn’t always create a sense of loneliness, but being deserted almost certainly will. Desertion has betrayal at its root. Nothing strikes at the heart of a person more than violated trust.” Knute Larson      

  Abandoned. Many children have been ignored, neglected, abandoned, and/or deserted by a parent. It’s hard to imagine how little children feel when this happens and how it affects them for the rest of their lives. Perhaps this has happened to you. Maybe you’re still hurting from something that happened to you many years ago. You’re not alone.  

  Dumped Off. Some elderly parents have been “dumped off” in a rest home by their own children. They also feel forsaken. I’ve met some of them. It’s been my privilege to visit with a few of them and try to bring some joy and peace into their lives.

  Forsaken. Being forsaken produces great trauma in a person’s life. Try to imagine how Jesus must have felt when one of His disciples betrayed Him with a kiss and the rest of them deserted Him when He was arrested in the Garden of Gethsemane. But to make things even worse, God the Father forsook His only begotten Son, Jesus as He hung there on the cross. Jesus cried out, “My God, My God, why have you forsaken Me?” (Matthew 27:46). Up to this point God the Father and God the Son had unbroken fellowship with each other.

  The Cause. Sin (lawless behavior) separates us from God. “The wages of sin is death [separation from God]” (Romans 6:23a). God is holy and righteous and can’t tolerate sin. It must be judged. When Jesus was hanging there on the cross He was bearing our sins in His body and dying as our Substitute. This is why God the Father had to forsake Him so we wouldn’t have to be separated from God for the rest of eternity. “…the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord” (Romans 6:23b). But that gift must be received by faith (Ephesians 2:8, 9). Have you reached out and taken it yet?

  Amazing Grace. That God would want to save any of us sinners from hell and take us to heaven is just amazing. It was our sins that put Christ on the cross. God said that we are just as guilty of Christ’s death as those who hammered the nails into His hands and feet (Acts 4:27). Even while we were God’s enemies Jesus Christ died for us and paid the debt we owed to God (Romans 5:6, 8). “He paid a debt He didn’t owe because we owed a debt we couldn’t pay.”

  God’s Promise. To those who place their faith and trust in Jesus Christ alone for their salvation God has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). But you must be God’s child before you claim this wonderful promise. Not until you are “born again from above” are you a true child of God (John 3:3). All unbelievers are children of the devil (John 8:44; 1 John 3:10).

  Reiterated. The Apostle Paul reiterated God’s promise when he pointed out that there is absolutely nothing that can separate a true Christian from God’s love (Romans 8:35-39). A child of God may disobey his Father periodically but he doesn’t cease to be God’s child. Discipline may be in order, but abandonment never (Hebrews 12:5, 6; 13:5).

  Suffering. As Christians, God sometimes allows others to hurt us. Prior to the Apostle Paul’s conversion he persecuted Christians and consented to the stoning of Stephen (Acts 8:1). Later Paul himself experienced first hand what it was like to be stoned (Acts 13:19). He endured many hardships so others could be saved (2 Corinthians 11:23-28). While he was imprisoned for preaching the Gospel and on trial for his life, one of his close friends deserted him (2 Timothy 4:10). Try to imagine how he must have felt.

  Expect It. The Scriptures tell us that all who desire to live godly lives here on earth should expect to be persecuted for Jesus’ sake (2 Timothy 3:12). Our godly response to persecution often forms the platform from which we can present the Gospel to others so they too can be saved. Anyone willing to die for his faith deserves a hearing.

   A True Friend. It’s hard to find a true friend who knows about your “dark side” and who still loves you and wants God’s best for you. “A real friend warms you by his presence, trusts you with his secrets, and remembers you in his prayers.” Next to God, if you’re married, your spouse should be your best friend. Mine is. She knows me well and still loves me. God knows everything about me and still loves me. That’s what I call “Amazing Grace.”

  The Best Friend. My father’s favorite hymn and the theme song for his radio broadcast in Japan for 35 years was, “What a friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear, all because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.”

  God’s Friends. Jesus had many disciples (followers). Some were believers while others like Judas weren’t saved. But Jesus called some of those believers “His friends” because of the intimacy He had with them and to whom He would reveal things to come (John 15:15; 16:13).

  What About You? Are you still one of God’s enemies? Are you still trying to make it into heaven by your good works? It can’t be done. If you could do that you’d have cause to boast (Ephesians 2:8, 9). Our deliverance from hell to heaven is a gift from God that must be received by faith in the Lord Jesus Christ alone (Acts 16:31). There is no other way and no other name by which we must be saved (John 14:6; Acts 4:12).

  Don’t Delay. This may be your last day on planet earth. “…it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment” (Hebrews 9:27). Our lives are like “a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away” (James 4:14).

  Now! If you want to be saved today and know for sure that you’ll go to heaven the moment you die, here is what you must do. Acknowledge that you are a sinner and that you can’t save yourself by your good works (Romans 3:10, 23). Then believe on the Lord Jesus Christ (the virgin born, sinless God-man) who died for your sins… and rose again bodily from the grave on the third day (Acts 16:31; 1 Corinthians 15:3-8).

  Assurance. Yes, you can know for sure, even before you die, that you have eternal life as a present possession and that you will go immediately to heaven the moment you die. The Apostle John wrote, “These things I have written to you who believe on the name of the Son of God, that you may know that you have eternal life [right now]” (1 John 5:13). Why is this true? “God so loved the world [the people caught in the devil’s world system] that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life” (John 3:16).

  Don’t Reject Him. After having read all this, will you still choose to reject Him as your personal Savior? I sincerely hope you won’t make this mistake and end up in hell forever.

  Need Help? If you need additional help call us at 805-238-3549 or visit or web site at www.kelseypeach.com. We try to add new articles each week to our web logs (blogs) that correspond to our Sunday messages.

“Life’s A Marathon”

  Several years ago our son, Judd ran in the Grandma’s Marathon in Duluth, Minnesota.  Before entering the race he spent many grueling hours training for it.  It was a thrill for my wife to see him running in that race and making it to the finish line. 
  A Rat Race.  Life has been likened to a race, a rat race.  Each one scrambles and crawls over others as he tries to get ahead of the next guy to get the cheese.  Some die along the way and never get any of the cheese.  Is that how you feel?
  Recognition.  While our son didn’t win that race, he did finish it.  To me, that was quite an accomplishment.  It’s hard for me to imagine that people can run 26 miles.
  Roles In Life.  Most of us have had several jobs.  Perhaps you served in the military for a few years.  Some have been professional athletes.  Others have been managers of other people.
  Obituary. At funerals an obituary or eulogy is usually read.  It reviews the accomplishments of the deceased and evokes memories among the attendees at the memorial service.
  Last Words.  As the Apostle Paul sat in prison in Rome, he wrote a letter to his former traveling companion and fellow missionary, Timothy.  He was serving God as the Pastor in Ephesus.  Encouragement was in order, especially because of the intense persecution of Christians at that time. 
  Testimonial.  Using his own life as an example, Paul rehearsed for Timothy some of the things he’d done as a Christian.  He went into greater details for the Christians in the church at Corinth since some of them were questioning his credentials as an apostle (2 Corinthians 11:21-28).
  Soldier.  The Christian life involves military service for every Christian.  When the devil or a demon targets our minds to control our behavior, the Christian must submit himself to God, put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-17), and then resist the devil in the power of God (James 4:7).  Too many Christians get defeated by demons because they rely on themselves rather than on God.
  Athlete.  Some athletes in other sports spend many hours training for an event that may last for a few moments.  Gold, silver, and bronze medals are given to the winners in the Olympic games.  But thankfully the others are not taken out and punished.
  Steward.  Most of us have never lived in a home with a steward.  His job was to manage the owner’s/master’s house and everyone in it.  He was to ensure that the members of the household received what they needed in life.  Perhaps you recall the story of Joseph in the Bible who served under Potiphar (Genesis 39:6).
  Been There. Done That.  The Apostle Paul had served God as a soldier, an athlete, and as the steward (household manager) of the “Dispensation of Grace” (Ephesians 3:2).  God used him to dispense to New Testament Christians our rules for living.  Paul wrote letters to local churches and to individuals to teach them how to live as Christians.  Other men whom God used included Peter, John, James, and Jude. They supplemented Paul’s writings (2 Peter 3:16).
  A Clarification.  Dispensations are not different ways of salvation.  They are the result of a normal, literal, grammatical, historical interpretation of the Bible.  Three of the seven major dispensations are the Mosaic Law, Grace, and Kingdom. Failing to live according to the rules designed for you as a Christian can lead to confusion and a waste of your time along with a loss of rewards and praise from God.  (Our “Dispensational Chart” can help clarify this information for you.  It’s free.)
  No Fear.  As he waited in prison for his execution, Paul expressed no fear of death.  It would serve as a door that opened up to a much better life (Philippians 1:23).  Too many people hang on to their earthly life and spend their children’s inheritance because of their fear of death and what might be on the other side.  Do you have that kind of dread in your life? It’s totally unnecessary and debilitating.
  Viewpoint.  One Bible commentator wrote, “Paul did not think of himself as going to be executed; he thought of himself as going to offer his life to God.  His life was not being taken from him; he was laying it down.  Ever since his conversion Paul had offered to God his money, his scholarship, his strength, his time, the vigor of his body, the acuteness of his mind, the devotion of his passionate heart.  Only life itself was left to offer, and gladly Paul was going to lay his life down.”  William Barclay
  Looking Ahead.  On the other side of death lies eternity.  It will be spent either with God and other believers in fullness of joy or it will be spent in the Lake of Fire with the devil, demons, and all unbelievers in torment (John 14:1-3; Revelation 21, 22; Matthew 25:30, 41, 46; Revelation 20:11-15).  
  Ticket.  To get into heaven you need a “ticket.”  You and I don’t have enough money or good works to pay for it.  So we must rely on the wealth and good works of someone else to purchase the “ticket” for us.  That person is Jesus Christ.  As the virgin born, sinless God-man, He purchased a “ticket” for you and me with His own life’s blood.  This means that providing salvation for us wasn’t cheap.
  Wait.  Even though Jesus Christ bought a “ticket” for us so we could get to heaven, it won’t do us any good unless we come humbly to Him and reach out and receive it from Him by faith (John 1:12).  Pride keeps many people from accepting the “ticket.”  They want to contribute to their salvation. Is that your problem?
  Impossible.  By your trying to pay or work for your “ticket” to heaven you insult God.  He wants to give you and me a “ticket” with no strings attached.  Salvation (deliverance from hell to heaven) is a gift.  Will you accept it?  If you don’t, you are the one who will suffer in hell forever.  
  Don’t Blame God.  Even the people in the darkest corners of the world can receive this “ticket” from God.  First they must accept natural revelation.  Nature tells them that there is a God who is all powerful (Romans 1:20).  Then if they will ask God for further information He will see to it that they receive the Good News concerning the Lord Jesus Christ so they can believe on Him to be saved (Romans 10:13-15).  
  Atheists?  In my opinion, it takes too much faith to be an atheist.  He should say, “I’m an agnostic.  I don’t know if there is a God or not.”  I believe honest people will acknowledge that there is a God.  But since many of them don’t want to be accountable to Him, they try to dismiss Him from their thinking.  Beware!  God gives such people up to their vile passions that will lead them to their destruction (Romans 1:18-32).
  Methods.  God can use missionaries, the printed page, or the airwaves to get the Gospel to those who want to learn more about Him.  They need to hear the Gospel message and believe on the Lord Jesus Christ who died for their sins…and who rose again bodily from the dead if they are to be saved.  Their is no other person and no other way to be saved (John 14:6; Acts 4:12).
  Not Enough.  It’s not enough to know the facts of the Gospel and agree with them.  You must transfer your trust from yourself and your good works to Christ alone if you are to be saved.
  Meet The Judge.  Judges have power over people’s lives.  Paul had encountered many unjust judges along life’s path.  Have you been an unjust judge?  God will hold you accountable to Him someday (Romans 14:12).  Paul was looking forward to meeting the righteous Judge Jesus Christ.
  Rewards And Crowns.  Even though the Christians already in heaven have to wait for the “Awards Ceremony” that will take place at the “Rapture” (1 Corinthians 3:11-15; 2 Corinthians 5:10),  Paul knew that just being with Christ in heaven with other believers would be far better than having to live here on earth in this “vale of tears” (Philippians 1:23).  He knew that he would receive the crown of righteousness for loving Christ’s appearing (2 Timothy 4:8).  
  Anticipation.  Do you live each day in the light of Jesus Christ’s imminent return (John 14:1-3)?  If you are a Christian, it can revolutionize your life.  It can make you a happy person (Titus 2:13).  It can help keep you pure in a polluted world (1 John 3:3), and it can comfort you when a fellow Christian is taken from you to heaven (1 Thessalonians 4:18).  If you are not a Christian it will affect you in a negative way whether you realize it or not.
  Choice, Not Chance.  You and I are given a choice.  We can accept or reject the “ticket” and God’s offer of deliverance from hell to heaven.  Those who receive Him as their personal Savior by faith can have assurance of salvation even before they die (1 John 5:13).  Do you have it?
  Help?  If you are still confused and unsure of your eternal destiny, we invite you to contact us at 805-238-3549 or visit our web page at www.kelseypeach.com where you will find other information to help you know God and/or grow in the sphere of grace.  We try to add new articles to our web log (Blogs) weekly that correspond to our Sunday messages.

“What’s A Pastor To Do?”

What’s a Pastor to do? Have you ever wondered what your Pastor does? My wife’s grandfather used to say, “They play golf most of the week and get up and talk on Sunday for about 20 minutes.” Once I was asked if the denomination supplies outlines and sermons for us to preach. I said, “Some churches may do that but we don’t.” Today larger churches may have multiple services each week but the messages may all be the same even though the style of music in each service may be different. We had four services each week but each message was different.

Biblical Qualifications. Not everyone is qualified to serve as a bishop (overseer) of a local church. Three terms are used when referring to the same individual. “Pastor-teacher” relates to the spiritual gift that God has given to some men at the moment of salvation (Ephesians 4:11). “Elder” refers to his relative degree of spiritual maturity (1 Timothy 3:6; 5:1). “Bishop” (overseer) is associated with the role he has over a local church. Rather than being appointed by a hierarchy outside the church, each of our churches selects its own pastors (overseers).

Biblical Responsibilities. Both the Apostles Peter and Paul provide us with information concerning the responsibilities of the Pastor-teacher, Bishop, Elder. Peter’s instructions can be found in 1 Peter 5:1-5. Paul, while imprisoned and facing imminent death, reminded Timothy of his duties as the pastor (overseer) of the church in Ephesus. He told him to –

Be Aware. Even though other people may be unaware of what we do, God is watching and listening to everything we do and say (2 Timothy 4:1). He even knows all about our motives (Revelation 3:8; 1 Corinthians 4:5). If our works measure up to God’s standards, we will be rewarded. Otherwise our works will be burned up (1 Corinthians 3:11-15). Our ultimate accountability is to the Chief Shepherd, the Lord Jesus Christ (1 Peter 5:4).

Be Faithful. “…it is required in stewards that one be found faithful” (1 Corinthians 4:2). Those who dispense God’s truth to others must have full confidence in God’s ability to keep His promises to His children (Ephesians 3:20). Some of them are conditional and others are unconditional. There are promises in the Bible that Christians can’t claim. They were addressed to the Jews alone. Don’t be deceived by those who teach the diabolical heresy called “Replacement Theology.” They teach that the Church has replaced Israel and that God is done with the Jews.  Many churches are embracing this error. (See Romans 11).  Do you know if your Pastor believes in it or not? Ask him. It is very anti-Semitic and it is going to lead to another greater Holocaust in the future (Zechariah 12, 14; Revelation 16:13-16).

Be Authoritative. “Preach the Word [of God with authority]” (2 Timothy 4:2). We don’t need to apologize for it. “God said it. We believe it. That settles it.” All 66 books of the Bible are God breathed and profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, and instruction in righteousness. All of it is for us, but not all of it is addressed to Christians (Titus 1:9).  Its purpose is to make the [men and women] of God complete and thoroughly equipped for every good work (2 Timothy 3:16, 17). Are the sermons you hear about pop psychology, self love, ego-boosters, and man made religions?

Be Distinctive. Know the differences between the Old and New Testaments, between the Mosaic Law (Exodus 19:9-Matthew 12:50), Grace teachings for Christians (John 13-Revelation 4), and Kingdom rules for the people who will live during the millennial reign of Christ on earth (Matthew 5-7; Revelation 20:1-7). Those teachers who don’t rightly divide the Word of truth will cause people to be confused and frustrated. They like to allegorize the Bible and change the intended purpose of the writer.

Be Ready. “But [set aside] the Lord God in your hearts, and always be ready to give a defense to anyone who asks you a reason for the hope that is in you, with meekness and fear” (1 Peter 3:15). As the need arises, the Pastor-teacher also needs to convince, rebuke, and exhort others with all long suffering and teaching (2 Timothy 4:2; 3:16). In the last days many churches will be filled with “professing Christians” who aren’t really saved, and with “carnal Christians” who are saved but who don’t act like Christians (1 Corinthians 3:1-4). These people won’t endure or put up with sound doctrine but will follow “false teachers” who tickle their ears and tell them what they want to hear (2 Timothy 4:3, 4; Isaiah 30:10).

  Be Watchful. Savage wolves, masquerading either as sheep or as angels of light, have been causing havoc in churches since its inception (Matthew 7:15; Acts 20:28-31; 2 Corinthians 11:13-15). The Apostle Paul wasn’t afraid to identify them to Christians.

Being a faithful Pastor-teacher (bishop) has many responsibilities. There are joys and sorrows associated with the work. If you are a true Christian and have a Pastor who believes in the verbal, plenary inspiration of the Bible, that Jesus Christ is God manifested in human flesh, and is the virgin born son of Mary, who lived a sinless life, and who died for our sins and rose again bodily from the grave, that salvation is by grace alone, through faith alone, in the Christ of the Scriptures alone, and who is teaching you to live according to “Grace teachings,” then pray for/and encourage him in the work he is doing. If not, God wants you to look for a different Pastor and church (2 Corinthians 6:14; Revelation 18:4).

  Help? If you need additional help or have questions, contact us here or through our website: http://www.kelseypeach.com. Click on “Follow” to receive future articles as they come out.

FREE Bible Study Book Marker with Dispensations Chart  https://www.kelseypeach.com/_files/ugd/08892a_ce5bb78881fa4f50a6c866dd9ab0adfe.pdf

“Awesome Responsibilities”

  What do you want to be when you grow up?  Art Linkletter used to ask that to kids on his television program.  Perhaps some of those same kids, now grown up, still haven’t figured out what they really want to do in life.  As one motivational speaker said, “They are wandering generalities rather than meaningful specifics.”  What about you?
  L.B.J.  Recently I read this story.  When elected President, Lyndon B. Johnson asked a famous evangelist what position he would like to have in his administration.  Without a moment’s thought the evangelist said, “Sir, I believe that Jesus Christ has called me to preach the gospel.  To me that is the highest calling any man could have on earth.”
  Search And Rescue.  Without a doubt there must be great satisfaction in the lives of those who are involved in the business of searching for lost people and rescuing them from danger.  They risk their own lives to save others.  If you are involved in this kind of business, we salute you and appreciate you for your work.
  Shepherds.  Have you ever met a shepherd?  That occupation is not in high demand today in our society.  I’ve never seen a want ad for that position.   Have you?  But good shepherds are needed today more than ever.  They need to have exceptional qualifications for the job.  So do their assistants and their wives (1 Timothy 3:1-13).
  The Good Shepherd.  Jesus referred to Himself as the Good Shepherd.  He laid down His life for His sheep (John 10:11, 14). A “hireling” shepherd, when encountering a wolf, might flee rather than protect the sheep that doesn’t belong to him.
  Awesome Responsibilities.  When a man takes on the role of a bishop (overseer) of a local church that belongs to Jesus Christ (1 Timothy 3:1-7), he has some awesome responsibilities that he must fulfill.  He must not treat his job lightly.
  Surveillance.  He needs to know that he is under the watchful eye of the omniscient “Chief Shepherd” Jesus Christ (1 Peter 5:4; Revelation 3:8).  If he does his work well, he will receive the crown of glory (1 Peter 5:4).  But if he does the work in the wrong way or for the wrong reasons he could be disqualified and/or disciplined by God (1 Corinthians 9:27; 2 Timothy 2:5; Hebrews 12:5, 6).  
  Apostate Teachers.  If he is an unsaved, apostate teacher he will be judged by Jesus Christ at the Great White Throne judgment (John 5:22).  Then he will be cast into hell and suffer with the devil and his angels (demons) forever (Matthew 25:41, 46; Jude 1:13).  His torment in hell will exceed that of those whom he misled (Revelation 20:13; Matthew 23:13-36). 
  Higher Standards.  Bible teachers are held to a higher standard than those whom they teach (James 3:1).  If they twist the Scriptures (2 Peter 3:16) or preach another gospel (1 Corinthians 15:3-8) or another Christ, a curse rests on them (2 Corinthians 11:4, 13-15; Galatians 1:6-9).
  Content.  The Word of God, contained in the 66 books of the Bible, has all that the Christian needs for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3).  Everything in it is the truth (John 17:17).  It tells us the truth about God, ourselves, the way of salvation, spirit beings, man’s future and much more.
  All “For” But Not All “To.”  All of the Bible is for the Christian, but not all of it is addressed to him.  Those who fail to see the distinctions between the Jews, Gentiles, and the church are often confused and disappointed in life (1 Corinthians 10:32).  You can’t claim promises that weren’t offered to you.  
  Holocaust.  Don’t be taken in by those who believe in “Replacement Theology.”  It’s a serious heresy that is spreading rapidily again in some churches.  It is ani-Semitic.  Sadly, it is going to lead to another Holocaust far greater than the one in Nazi Germany. The Bible predicts it (Zechariah 14:2; Revelation 16:16).
  The Plague.  Woe to all the armies of the world that come to Armageddon (Revelation 16:13-16) to wipe the Jews off the face of the earth (Genesis 12:3).  A weapon of mass destruction will cause their flesh to drop off from their bones quickly (Zechariah 14:12).  It will be a gruesome scene as the birds eat their flesh (Revelation 19:17-19).
  Dispensations.  When a person interprets the Bible normally, historically, and grammatically, he comes to realize that God has had different rules for different people throughout history.  In the Bible they are called “dispensations” or “stewardships” (1 Corinthians 9:17; Ephesians 1:10; 3:2). They are not different ways of salvation. (For more information about “Dispensations” we invite you to go to our website for a free chart.)
  Preach The Word.  Too often a “preacher” talks about things other than the Word of God.  It is the Word of God that is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword.  It pierces even to the division of the soul and spirit…and it is a discerner of the thoughts and intents (motivations) of the heart (Hebrews 4:12). 
  Can’t Stand This?  God’s ministers are told to “Convince, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and teaching” (2 Timothy 4:2).  Some folks don’t want any of this.  They want their preachers to speak smooth words to them and tell them how wonderful they are even though they are living in open rebellion toward God.  They have “itching ears” (2 Timothy 4:3, 4).  This happened in the Old Testament times too (Isaiah 30:10).  
  The Church Today.  Many local churches around the world are filled with religious people who haven’t been “born again from above” (John 3:3).  Some are relying on their good works to get them into heaven while others are relying on their faith plus their good works.  Neither way saves a person from hell (Ephesians 2:8, 9).  Apostasy is rampant.
  One Way.  If you want to argue, argue with Jesus.  He said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life.  No one comes to the Father except through Me” (John 14:6).  If you say that there are many ways to God, you’re calling Him a liar.  Some even thought He was a lunatic, including His half brothers (Matthew 13:55; Mark 3:21; John 7:5).  Isaiah the prophet predicted this (Isaiah 53:4).  It wasn’t until after His resurrection that His brothers believed in Him as the Messiah and as their personal Savior (1 Corinthians 15:7).  What are your thoughts abut Jesus Christ?  This is a critical matter.
  The Gospel.  It’s clear and simple.  We’re all sinners who have come short of God’s glory and standard for heaven (Romans 3:10, 23).  As such, we all deserve to die physically and be sent to hell to suffer forever (Romans 6:23). But Jesus Christ, the virgin born, sinless God-man, died for our sins…and rose again bodily from the grave on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3-8).  Yes, bodily (Luke 24:33-43).  His resurrected, glorified body doesn’t have or need blood but it does have a different and better kind of flesh and bones.  Those who deny that Jesus Christ will return to earth with a glorified body of flesh and bones are deceivers and antichrists (2 John 7).
  Believe.  “Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will be saved” (Acts 16:31).  One act of faith in the right person through the Gospel will result in your being saved.  Once saved, God wants His children to live in an attitude of faith throughout their lives (Roman 1:17).  They need to know and claim His promises for them.  He also wants them to do the good works He planned for them to do while they live here on earth (Ephesians 2:10).
  Spiritual Gifts.  These good works are related to the spiritual gift that God has given to each believer (1 Peter 4:10).  Some of these gifts were temporary and aren’t needed today since God isn’t dispensing new revelation to mankind today (1 Corinthians 13:10).    
  Caution.  Beware of anyone who tells you he/she is receiving new revelation (information) from God.  Cursed are those who add to or take away from the completed Scriptures (Revelation 22:18, 19).  For more information, we invite you to go to the “Bible Basics” section on our web site.
  Hungry?  Are you hungering for the Word of God?  Do you want more than the “milk of the Word?”  Would you like to sink your teeth into some solid food and a “spiritual steak?”  Do you have assurance of salvation?  Is there anything you could do or fail to do that would cause you to lose your salvation?
  Need Help?  If you have Bible questions, we invite you to call us at 805-238-3549 or visit our web site at www.kelseypeach.com.

“Prosperity Or Persecution?”

  Perhaps you recall the story of Daniel’s being thrown into the Lion’s den because he prayed to the true and living God three times a day. God graciously spared his life from those hungry lions (Daniel 6). But many other believers throughout time have died cruel deaths at the hands of wicked men because of their faith in the true and living God (Hebrews 11:35-38). Do you know which prophet was sawn in two with a wooden saw?

  Guardian Angels. Although God can and does deliver His children from many dangers on a daily basis through guardian angels (Hebrews 1:14), He does tell Christians who desire to live godly lives to expect to be persecuted by the ungodly people (2 Timothy 3:12).

  The Blood Of The Martyrs. In the early days of the church the blood of the martyrs became the seed of the church. The more they were persecuted, the more the church grew. Those who are willing to die for their faith had and still have a profound impact on others.

  A Bad Marriage. Realizing that his plan to exterminate the church wasn’t working well, the devil changed his tactics. He used the Roman emperor Constantine to wed together the people of the world (unbelievers) and the church (true Christians). It became increasingly more difficult to distinguish between those who were true Christians and those who were merely “professing Christians” for the sake of expedience. This problem still exists today.

  Pressure Increasing. Although true Christians in the United States have been relatively free from external persecution, it seems that the unbelievers are exerting more and more pressure on those who believe that the Lord Jesus Christ is the one and only way to God in heaven (John 14:6; Acts 4:12).

  Demon Possession. The false teachers are telling people that there are many ways to God. This is the same problem that the Apostle Paul encountered in the city of Philippi. A demon possessed girl was following him around saying, “These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the [“a”] way of salvation (Acts 16:17).

  One Way. The original Greek text, in which the New Testament was written, validates her false claim. Paul wanted others to know that Jesus Christ was not one of many ways to God but the only way to God. So when he cast out the demon in her, he and Silas were arrested and beaten by the local authorities and cast into jail because her masters lost their source of revenue. As they say, “Follow the money.”

  A Church Was Born. That same night God sent an earthquake to free His servants and bring the jailer to a place where he accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Savior. Through him and some other believers a local church was established in that city.

  It’s Worth It. Persecution, whether verbal or physical, is not something any of us naturally want to experience. But if as a result of it, others come to Christ for salvation, and are delivered from hell, the experience will be worth it all.

  Murdered. The Apostle Paul said, “I endure all things for the sake of the elect, that they also may obtain the salvation which in Christ Jesus with eternal glory” (2 Timothy 2:10). He also wrote, “I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us” (Romans 8:18). While in the city of Lystra, Paul was stoned to death for proclaiming the Gospel. God resuscitated him back to life and he kept on preaching Christ (Acts 14:19, 20; 2 Corinthians 12:1-10). Would you and I have done what he did?

  Run The Race. The song writer said it well, “It will be worth it all when we see Jesus, / Life’s trials will seem so small when we see Christ; / One glimpse of His dear face all sorrow will erase, / So bravely run the race till we see Christ.”

  Driving It Home. If you’re a Christian, are you willing to suffer for the cause of Jesus Christ so others can be saved and go to heaven? Or do you want to be carried to the skies on flowery beds of ease while others fought to win the prize, and sailed through bloody seas?

  What Jesus Did. Jesus Christ, the God-man, left heaven’s glories and came to earth to glorify God the Father by dying for our sins and rising again bodily from the dead on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3-8). He chose to die on a cross rather than some other less painful way to die. Why? He wanted to show us the extent of His love for us. Because of His willingness to do this, God the Father highly exalted Him and seated Him at His (the Father’s) right hand in heaven (Ephesians 1:20).

  You Will Agree. One day every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord [God] to the glory of the Father (Philippians 2:9-11). This is not teaching universal salvation of all men. Everyone will acknowledge that Jesus Christ is indeed a member of the Godhead who manifested to mankind the true nature of God (John 1:1-18).

  Heaven Or Hell? Those who place their faith in Him alone will be saved from an eternal hell and spend eternity with God in heaven. Those who haven’t trusted in Him before they die physically will be cast into the Lake of Fire to suffer with the devil and his angels (demons) forever (Matthew 25:41, 46; Revelation 20:10-15).

  All Can Know. Those who want to know about the true and living God can be saved no matter where they live on earth. If they will accept the natural revelation that tells us that there is a God who is all powerful and ask Him for more information, God will see to it that they receive the Gospel message (I Corinthians 15:3-8) somehow so they can believe on Christ and be saved (Romans 1:16-20). There are no excuses for unbelief.

  Missionaries. This is why we send out missionaries, support Christian literature ministries, radio or television ministries that proclaim the Gospel clearly and faithfully. Not all of them do this. If you support “Christian ministries” or a local church, do you know to whom the money is going and how it is being spent? Some false teachers are “living high on the hog” and making unbiblical promises to their supporters by twisting the Scriptures. Are you, perhaps unknowingly, supporting those who are teaching heresy or another gospel and a different Christ (2 Corinthians 11:3, 13-15)? Have you been stung by them?

  Invest Wisely. God will reward believers who invest their time, talents, and treasures wisely in His work as they are led by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:11-15; Romans 8:14). A “Crown of Life” awaits those who die for the cause of Christ and for those who resist temptation up to the point of death, if necessary (Revelation 2:10; James1:12). When we truly love God, we will resist temptations to sin (act lawlessly). We won’t yield to a momentary pleasure that comes from sin (Hebrews 11:25).

  Help? If you would like additional information to help you know Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, or want to grow in Christ as a Christian, we invite you to call us at 805-238-3549 or visit or web site http://www.kelseypeach.com.

“A Snake Under The Bed”

“Eek!  Honey, come quickly!  There is a huge cobra snake under our bed!”  How would you react if you had a snake under your bed?  This is what happened to our friends who are missionaries in Africa.
  Serpent.  Satan used the serpent to deceive Eve and got her to eat the forbidden fruit.  So God put a curse on the snake and made it walk on its belly (Genesis 3:14; Revelation 12:9).
  Vipers.  Like their father the devil, false teachers slither into people’s lives and into churches (Jude 1:4).  They are usually very smooth talkers and many of them are quite handsome and appealing to some women’s lustful eyes (1 John 2:15-17).  
  Women.  Without women none of us would be here.  We thank God for the godly mothers among us who have shaped our lives (2 Timothy 1:5).  As far as godliness goes, women are usually more spiritually minded then many men.  Do you have a godly mother?  Have you expressed your appreciation to her recently?  Abraham Lincoln said, “I regard no man as poor who has a godly mother.” 
  Their Targets.  False teachers often target “wealthy widows” and “wanton wives” (desperate housewives) who are loaded down with guilt from personal sins (2 Timothy 3:6).  Rather than confessing and forsaking their sins (Proverbs 28:13), they are taken in by false teachers who will soothe their troubled consciences with false teachings (1 Timothy 4:2).
  Ever Learning.  Bible “head knowledge” is important (2 Timothy 2:15; 3:16, 17).  But knowing “Bible trivia” (a strange term) is not as important as being transformed into Christ likeness (Galatians 5:22, 23) by the Word of God and the power of the Holy Spirit (2 Peter 3:18; Ephesians 5:18).  Some people have a form of godliness but have no power associated with it (2 Timothy 3:5).  How about you?
  Knowing The Difference.  If you’re a Christian, do you know what part of the Word of God is for you and which part is to you?  Do you know what was given to the Jews and what is addressed to the church?  Are you one who believes in “Replacement Theology” which teaches that the church has replaced Israel and that there is no bright future for the nation of Israel?  Do you know what happens to those who curse the Jews (Genesis 12:3)?
  Rebels.  Some Egyptian magicians were able to imitate a few of the miracles Moses performed in the power of God.  They wanted to discredit him and His God.  But their power was limited.  They were shown to be impotent against the true and living God whom Moses served (Exodus 9:11). 
  Modern Apostates.  They try to enact changes by their ingenious manipulation but deny the need for a new birth from above (John 3:3).  Have you been born again from above?  How does it happen?  Is there any evidence of a transformed life that others can see in you?
  Demons.  Believe it or not, the devil and demons (fallen angels) are alive and well on planet earth (Ephesians 6:10-17).  They constantly oppose the work of God and try to deceive others.  Have you been misled by them?  They work through false teachers and appear as angels of light. They teach another Jesus and a different gospel (2 Corinthians 11:3. 13-15).  They are accursed (Galatians 1:6-9).  Have you been misled by them?  Are you “believing in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:2)?
  Sensual.  Some false teachers are notoriously immoral in their private lives while appearing to be saintly to their followers (Jude 1:19; 2 Peter 2:1-22).  Do you know someone who fits into this category?
  Judged.  God knows all about them and will judge them more severely than He does others (James 3:1). With flaming fire He will take vengeance on them (2 Thessalonians 1:5-10).  He also knows everything about you and me including why we do what we do.  What motivates you?  One day everything will be exposed by the light (1 Corinthians 4:5).  Why not confess your sins now and be forgiven (1 John 1:9)? 
  Be Sober Minded. Christians are exhorted to be sober and vigilant because their adversary (the devil) goes about like a roaring lion seeking those whom he may overwhelm (1 Peter 5:8; Acts 20:28-31).  Will he get you?
  Victorious Living.  No true Christian has to be defeated by the devil, his diabolical world system, or by the sin nature we all have (1 John 1:8).  God has made a way of escape from these spiritual enemies (1 Corinthians 10:13).  Are you availing yourself of God’s provisions for you?  Do you know how each enemy  attacks us?
  The Foundation.  If you are building your house (life) on the sand it will fall.  But if it’s being built on the Rock (Jesus Christ), it will stand firm when adversity comes your way (Matthew 7:24-27; 16:18).  
  Faith Or Good Works?  We are saved by God’s grace (unmerited favor) through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ who died for our sins and rose again bodily from the grave (Ephesians 2:8, 9; 1 Corinthians 15:3-8).  

  The Formula.  Remember God’s formula: Grace + Faith = Salvation + Works.  Heresy: Grace + Faith + Good Works = Salvation.  The Apostle Peter wrote, “…be even more diligent to make your call and election sure…” (2 Peter 1:10).
  Assurance.  Are you absolutely sure that you will go to heaven the moment your die?  If you said “Yes,” are you being presumptuous?  Is there a waiting period after you die before you can enter heaven?  If so, how long will that be?  Is there any way to shorten that time?  Why should God let you into heaven?  Is there anything you could do or fail to do that would cause you to lose your salvation once you have it?  If so, what would that be?
  Help?  If you aren’t sure of your eternal destiny, call us at 805-238-3549 or visit or web site for more information. www.kelseypeach.com

“Treacherous Traitors Throughout Time”

  His name is considered synonymous with the definition of traitor due to his collaboration with the British during the War of Independence. Benedict Arnold, while he was still a general on the American side, obtained command of the fort at West Point, New York, and plotted unsuccessfully to surrender it to the British.
  Notables. Other notables in more recent American history, who have been accused of being traitors to their country include: Robert Hansen, former FBI special agent who was accused of selling lists of FBI double agents and other moles to the KGB agents for large sums of money, “Hanoi” Jane Fonda who sympathized with the North Vietnamese, and Julius and Ethel Rosenberg for selling atomic secrets to the Russians.
  “Et tu, Brutus?” Latin students recall this quote that was uttered by Julius Caesar as he took in the depths of his betrayal by his own nephew, Marcus Junius Brutus.
  Thirty Pieces Of Silver. The greatest traitor in human history was Judas Iscariot. He sold his Teacher, Jesus Christ, to the Jewish religious leaders who hated Him, for thirty pieces of silver, the price of a slave. This event was predicted by the prophet long ago (Zechariah 11:12, 13; Matthew 26:12).
  The Last Days. The Apostle Paul, along with other writers of the Scriptures, predicted that perilous times would come to the earth in the last days (2 Timothy 3:1-5). Among other things, men would be “traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God.”
  A Traitor. This is a person who betrays another person’s trust or is false to an obligation or duty. Synonyms include: apostate, backstabber, betrayer, double-crosser, double-dealer, Judas, quisling, serpent, snake, turncoat. Do you know anyone like this? Have you ever betrayed a friend? If you have, do you know what you should do to clear your conscience?
  Apostates. There are plenty of traitors in the religious realm too. They profess to be Christians but don’t posses the gift of eternal life (Matthew 7:21-23; 2 Timothy 3:5). They mix the truth with lies and heresies just as the devil did to Eve in the garden. The blackness of everlasting darkness awaits false teachers (2 Peter 2:17; Jude 1:13).
  Traitors Among Us. Within our country and among our current leaders you will find, no doubt, those who are selling out our country to our enemies or who are trying to incorporate us and other countries into another “Tower of Babel” (Genesis 11:4). They think that our Constitution is an antiquated document that needs to be cast aside so we can enter a new era and develop a “New World Order.” Recent presidents have been talking about this on a regular basis. Have you been paying attention to them? It will be ruled by the elite and the rest of us would become slaves of the State and the ruling class.
  It’s Coming. Whether we like it or not, such a “New World Order” is coming our way. Actually there are two “New World Orders.” One is being devised by God’s arch enemy, the devil, and the other one by Jesus Christ, the God-man. Satan’s counterfeit will precede Christ’s. The ungodly people on earth will welcome gladly the one world government of the “Man of lawlessness” known to some as “Antichrist.” He will come with all power, signs, and lying wonders and deceive many people (2 Thessalonians 2:9).
  It’s End. The counterfeit “New World Order” will come to a frightful end when the “Prince of Peace” returns to the earth to set up His universal and everlasting kingdom (Isaiah 9:6; Daniel 2:44, 45; Matthew 24, 25; Revelation 19, 20). He will crush His enemies with His rod of iron (Psalm 2:9). The rulers of this world are admonished to bend the knee to Him before it’s too late.
  Bible Prophecy. It seems rather strange to hear some “Pastors” telling their people to disregard Bible prophecy and just focus their attention on carrying out the “social gospel” so they can usher in the “Kingdom of God” on earth. A curse rests upon those who preach another Gospel (Galatians 1:6-9; 2 Corinthians 11:4).
  Don’t Be Ignorant. At the time of its writing, over one fourth of the Bible was prophetic in nature. The same rules of interpretation should be used for Christ’s second coming as were used for His first coming to earth. Sadly, many people “allegorize” or “spiritualize” Bible prophecy. They twist it and make it say whatever they want it to say (2 Peter 3:16).
  The Stage. It seems like the stage is being set for the arrival of another day (phase) in human history. Are you ready to face the future?  Are you happy about the changes you’ve seen taking place in our country and the world in the last few years? How much confidence do you have in governmental leaders? What does God say about them (Daniel 4:17, 25)? Are you looking for a “Superman” to rescue the world from evil? Will you be deceived by a charismatic world leader who promises peace (1 Thessalonians 5:3) but whose reign ends with over one half of the world’s population dead?
  The Big Lie. From the time when Adam and Eve ate the forbidden fruit, man has believed the lie that somehow he can become a god (Genesis 3:5; Romans 1:25; 2 Thessalonians 2:11). Instead of worshiping and serving the Creator, he worships and serves the creature. He fails to acknowledge the Creator or give thanks to Him. For this reason God gave up some people to their vile passions (Romans 1:18-32).
  The Gospel Truth. Within the pages of the Scriptures there is some Good News for us sinners. This is it: “Christ (the sinless God-man) died for our sins…and rose again bodily from the grave on the third day…” (1 Corinthians 15:3-8). Yes, in heaven He now has a resurrected, glorified body consisting of flesh and bones but no blood (Luke 24:33-43).
  New Bodies.  True Christians will receive the same kind of body at the time of the Rapture (1 John 3:2). Are you ready for a body like Christ’s? Instead of being dominated by our souls (emotions), our new bodies will be governed by the spirit that belongs to the mind (1 Corinthians 15:44; Ephesians 4:23). At the present time Christians await the future tense salvation of their souls and bodies (1 Peter 1:9; Romans 8:23). This will take place at the Rapture (1 Corinthians 15:51ff; 1 Thessalonians 4:13-18). Are you waiting with excitement for this glorious day? Perhaps Today!
  The Command. God commands men everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30). This means that we must change our minds. We must stop believing in their own ability to save ourselves by our good works. Instead we must trust (believe on) the Lord Jesus Christ exclusively for our salvation (Ephesians 2:8, 9; Acts 4:12; 16:31).
  Your Response. You may know all the facts about Jesus and the Gospel and agree with them but still may not be fit for heaven. Many people believe in vain (1 Corinthians 15:2). Are you one of them? You must personally place your faith in Him alone as your personal Savior. Have you done that yet? If not, why not do so right now?
  Help. If you need assurance of your salvation, call us at 805-238-3549 or visit our web site www.kelseypeach.com.

“Stop The World”

  “Stop the world!  I want to get off.  I can’t stand living here any longer.  Things seem to be going from bad to worse every day.  I don’t know what I should do or can do.  Will things ever get better?  Where can I find help?  Does anyone really care?”  
   Do these words describe how you feel sometimes?  Are you troubled by the things you see happening in the world around you?  What lies ahead? 
  First, you should know that God’s Word predicted that perilous times would come on mankind in the last days (2 Timothy 3:1-5).  But they won’t go on forever if you are God’s child rather than the devil’s child (John 8:44).  Until Christ comes back to put an end to all unrighteousness, people will continue to become more –
  Unloving.  This describes those who lack natural love for their family, friends, fellow workers, and their neighbors.  I don’t need to tell you that the family is under attack today by godless people who want to redefine marriage and the family.  They have an unnatural love which God has condemned (Romans 1:18-27).  Children are being abused verbally, physically, and sexually.  As the family goes, so goes the nation. 

  Your Home.  Is your home just a place to sleep and change your clothes?  Are you always on the run?  Do you spend time talking with the other members of your family?  Are you seeking God’s best for them?  How can you know what the will of God is?  
 Unreliable Truce Breakers.  “Treaties are like pie crusts.  They are made to be broken.”  This is how some politicians think about the agreements they make with other nations.  But it’s also true among the ordinary man who makes a promise and never keeps or intends to keep it.  Parents and children, employers and employees lie to each other.  Those whose lives are characterized by lying will end up forever in the lake of fire and brimstone, which is the second death (Revelation 21:8). 

  Your Word.  Is your word also your bond?  God expects His children to keep the promises (vows) they make.  Because some have made vows that they haven’t kept, they are experiencing mental problems and weariness of mind along with physical illnesses (James 5:12, 15).  Have you made promises you haven’t kept?  Don’t treat them lightly.  God doesn’t (Ecclesiastes 5:4, 5).  Do you know what you must do to restore your health?
   Vicious Slanderers.  Shredding someone else’s reputation is a poor way to build up yourself. Mud slinging is common in the political process. Telling a half truth with the intent to deceive is lying too.  You might never think of putting your hand in another person’s pocket to steal but you might take pleasure in destroying another person’s good name.  “If a man’s goods are stolen, he can [rebuild] his fortunes again; but if a man’s good name is taken away, irreparable damage has been done to him.” W. Barclay
  The Psalmist asked God to put a watch on his mouth (Psalm 141:3).  God will hold us accountable for every idle word that crosses our lips (Matthew 12:36).  Watch what you say.  You can’t retract them.  Why not work on the construction crew, not the demolition crew?
 Undisciplined.  Has the motto of our society become, “Do your own thing and enjoy it?”  This attitude has brought forth many children who are deformed and handicapped.  Perhaps you know someone who is suffering because his/her parent misused drugs, alcohol, or passed on a venereal disease to them.   

  Brutal.  Violent video games and horror movies seem to be giving people ideas that are not healthy.  Some demented people are not content to just kill people.  They want to mutilate, torture, and randomly kill others. They seem to take great pleasure in their savage behavior.  Sometimes they must do such things to be initiated into a gang. 
 Hateful, Despisers Of Good.  Instead of pursuing moral purity and right living, they find great delight in seeing how long they can defy the law and get by with it.  They don’t want anyone restricting their behavior.  They live lawlessly and push the envelope of decency. They act like “the man of lawlessness” known as the Antichrist (2 Thessalonians 2:8).  Those who follow him will end up with him someday in the lake of fire (Matthew 25:20, 41, 46; Revelation 20:10).  Jesus came to rescue us from this awful place. 
 These are just a few of the characteristics that the Apostle Paul predicated people would have in the last days (2 Timothy 3:1-5).  
 Hold On!  Perhaps you’re thinking to yourself, “I’m not that bad.”  That may be true.  You could be a lot worse.  But if you don’t have the Lord Jesus Christ as your personal Savior, the Scriptures declare that you are as bad off as you can be.  You will spend eternity in the same place as those who are unfit for heaven.  You’re in the wrong family. You need to be “born again from above” into God’s family (John 3:3).
  Folks, we’re all sinners who have fallen short of God’s glory (Romans 3:23).  As such, we deserve to be separated forever from a morally pure God (Romans 6:23).  
 Good News!  The God-man, Jesus Christ, who never sinner, died for our sins…and rose again bodily from the grave.  He can save any and all who trust in Him alone for their deliverance from hell to heaven (1 Corinthians 15:3-8). Have you placed your faith in Him yet?  If not, why not do so right now?  This may be your last day on earth.  God won’t weigh your good works against your bad works to see if you can enter heaven or not.  Our salvation is not based on our good works but by God’s grace (unmerited favor) through faith in the Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 2:8, 9).  
 Help!  If you need additional information or spiritual help, call us at 805-238-3549 or visit our web site www.kelseypeach.com